We are at the beginning of a remodel of a 1950 home so this site has quickly become like the big wing of a mother duck to me that I run to over and over when all these decisions make me dizzy. After looking at the brazillion photos of backsplashes, I agree with most of you about the simplicity being the better choice. But the reason i'm actually writing this first post here is just to say how refreshing it is to read your comments; after being on other blogs (like Apt. Therapy)where the people viciously attack each other, it is such a relief to get to know you all through your words that are complimentary and helpful at the same time! Classy is the word for you - thanks.

I also wanted a 48" range for my kitchen, having never had one, I really looked for a Wolf or Viking at a discount...but found nothing I felt comfortable shelling out the money for. Even on Craigslist/ebay....found some, but still, IMO the deals were very risky due to no warranty or fall back if something went wrong. We did purchase a 48" kitchen aid range...granted I have never had a wolf or Viking.....but I absolutely LOVE my Kitchen aid range. We purchased it at Sears outlet/discount for about 60% less than retail (small scuff mark at bottom) and we did get an extended warranty. I love the way this range cooks!!! I love the convection oven and the fact that I have a smaller oven to cook in most days. I am not sure if you have ever had the higher end appliances, I have not and so this is a total upgrade for me and I have a peace of mind knowing I have a warranty. Also, we purchased the Sharp microwave, 24" I was able to get this for 70% below retail from Sears outlet also (not sure what was wrong with it, it was still in original packaging) ...we love it.!!!..total space saver and my DH who is 6'4" can even use it with ease. The controls tilt up so NO bending over to use it. I highly recommend getting the Sharp microwave, everyone who comes into our kitchen raves about it! Also, don't rule of 48" kitchen aid range, you can find some good deals.

We just put up our BS -- 2x4 " white subs -- on Sunday. Not grouted yet but will be gray as the tile on the floor. There is a lot going on in this kitchen and this tile looks best, IMHO. It is a farmhouse; new build. Gray quartzite and leathered black granite CT. I have never liked most BS as it seems to me to be the first thing in a kitchen to date it and distract. The scale of the smaller tile seems good enough here. Just because it is something that has been "done" over and over doesn't mean it's not the best thing for your kitchen. It was what I originally planned for this house going back about 10 years - just now getting the house finished. It's been a four year build :(

Yes, it was in response to your comment above about the paint behind the range (unfortunately there is no longer a specific time given or I would be more precise). I understand you're planning tile behind the range --- main subject of the post -- but the idea behind adoiron's comment just above this one "i have a range with the back part so no worries about fires" was why I made such a strong statement. People don't read every word of a thread as we know. There is worry about fires with unprotected wall material behind any range. Fires can jump to the nearest flammable material.